Indiana mobile food units must comply with 410 IAC 7-24 retail food regulations and obtain health permits from local health departments operating under state standards. Food safety rules apply uniformly statewide regardless of municipality.
410 IAC 7-24 adopts the FDA Food Code with Indiana modifications, governing all retail food establishments including mobile units, food trucks, and pushcarts. Mobile food operators must hold a permit issued by the local health department in their base of operations county, with reciprocity provisions allowing operation in other jurisdictions. Required elements include certified food protection manager training under IC 16-42-5.2, approved commissary kitchen base, potable water and wastewater systems, and routine inspections. Local zoning controls where trucks may operate, but food safety standards are state-uniform.
Operating without a health permit may result in immediate shutdown. Class B misdemeanor possible for serving food causing illness. Permit revocation, fines up to $1,000 per inspection violation under IC 16-42-5.2.
See how Hamilton County's food truck permits rules stack up against other locations.
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